Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to some common questions.
What is a neuropsychological evaluation?
- Neuropsychology is a specialty that focuses on brain-behavior relationships. Neuropsychologists have specialized training in the association between neuroanatomy and function. This allows a neuropsychologist to determine how a brain injury or disease affects cognitive and emotional abilities. It can also help with differential diagnosis or defining comorbid conditions.
- Assessment of cognitive impairment and areas of preserved function relating to a neurological injury or disease process is useful for patients/caregivers to determine capacity to return to work, return to activities of daily living, decision making capabilities, etc.
- Evaluating cognitive functions can assist with medication management, determining need for various rehabilitation therapies, and need for accommodations at work or school.
- Evaluations typically last anywhere from 2-6 hours depending on the referral question and complexity of the case.
Who is qualified to conduct a neuropsychological evaluation?
- A board-certified neuropsychologist is someone who has earned a doctoral degree, completed post-doctoral training in neuropsychology preferably at an APPCN affiliated site, and completed board certification through ABPP or ABCN.
What is involved in the evaluation?
- The evaluation begins with a one-hour clinical interview where the neuropsychologist gets a detailed history. Next, testing is usually scheduled over 1-3 days lasting anywhere from 2-6 hours.
- Breaks are provided during testing, especially to our young patients.
- The final appointment is scheduled after testing has been completed. During this one-hour long feedback meeting, the results and treatment recommendations are provided by the neuropsychologist.
- A final report is provided, about 5-7 days later, to coordinate treatment with the referring physician and any other professionals that may be required.
How do I prepare for a neuropsychological evaluation?
- Bring eyeglasses and any other assistive devices such as hearing aids, communication devices.
- Take medication as prescribed.
- Bring medication list. In the case of children, bring education plans, progress reports, and relevant work samples.
- Get a good night’s sleep prior to testing.
- Relax.
Does insurance cover the cost of an evaluation?
- Neuropsychological evaluations are typically a covered benefit. We have an experienced billing director who will gather your insurance information and assist with the filing of your claims.
What insurances are we providers for?
- Medicare, Tricare, UHC, UBH, and select others. If your insurance is not listed here please call our office to check if we are providers.